But:
Who brings because nowadays even a CD with live recordings out - without at the same time to publish the DVD? The Symphonica shows was visually great, on a large LED screen other sets were created, depending on the song. That would be but a great DVD. In addition, Michael has played with his orchestra in different historical venues. And only on CD?
The show had to be interrupted: George Michael had to take a long break due to severe pneumonia. The first show gave it again to the staff and doctors ... that makes the whole tour and the story especially - is nowhere to be found again.
So why "only" a CD? That may have worked in the 70s and 80s - but today?
For the pure release strategy, in my view, a thick point deduction.
If the music:
As I said, in voice and orchestra, there is nothing to complain about. George Michael is in good voice, and the song selection is OK, certainly could have been with record one or two tracks. For example, lack the version of "Russian Roulette" (originally by Rihanna), which was at the concert is a highlight - here the piece missing.
The arrangements have unfortunately zero surprise. "Different Corner", "Cowboys & Angels" ... the songs are in the Symphonica version all not far away from the originals. "You Have Been Loved" is not very different from the studio version. That's too bad, because just when I ever so take an orchestra on stage, then I can not draw from the unlimited resources. "Brother Can You Spare A Dime", "Roxanne" and "My Baby Just Cares For Me", we have just as well been on the CD "Songs Of The Century" (1999) is one. "Praying For Time" sounds like on the 1997 "Unplugged" performance, just stop me Orchestra. So if you really expect something new, which is rather disappointed. Schade: George Michael would have time to complete his verwurschteln old banger to turn eg "Credit Card Baby" in a swing number. Missed opportunity. Nicely, however: songs like "Let Her Down Easy", originally performed by Terence Trent D'Arby (mark today no more).
A full orchestra would probably not at all the man needed. The best sound, the songs in the moments where only voice can be heard along with a single instrument.
In the follow-up in the studio we have tried very hard not to give rise to too many live atmosphere. The whole thing seems a bit constructed when eg applause comes, he is linearly appears and disappears - that sounds almost clinically clean and natural. However - here was legendary producer Phil Ramone at work (in 2013 deceased), the CD documented practically its last work.
Anyway: for fans certainly a must buy if you consider that George Michael is not working PUBLICATION intensive. The last studio album gave it 10 years ago. Otherwise, I would rather wait and see if not still a DVD is pushed behind.
Conclusion:
**** Music
Sound ****
Value **
